South East Five Year Forest Plan 2021-2025 - Coillte
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Coillte Five Year Forest Plan – South East Leinster
South East Five Year Forest Plan
2021-2025
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Coillte South East Leinster BAU Draft Five Year Forest Plan
Foreword
I have great pleasure in publishing Coillte’s South East Five Year Forest Plan for our forests. The
purpose is to set out plans for the forest and non-forest business that will take place in the BAU
(Business Area Unit) during the plan period. In practicing sustainable forest management Coillte’s
aim is to develop its forests in a way that is environmentally, socially and economically sustainable.
A key part of our business is sharing our plans with our neighbours, communities and stakeholders
and endeavouring to incorporate their views where possible.
The topics covered in the five year forest plan include:
Commercial Forest Planning:
• Tree Planting
• Timber Harvesting
• Timber Sales
• Forest Roads and Access
• Licenses, Lettings and Recreation
• Land Acquisition and Property Sales
• Non Forest Business such as Renewable Energy
Forest Planning for public benefits and public use:
• Community facilities and benefits
• Recreational and tourism infrastructure and partnerships
• Access to our forests
• Environmental enhancement measures such as biodiversity and nature conservation
Forest Planning for sustainable use of resources:
• Sustainable Forest Management
• Long Term Retention of Trees
• low impact silvicultural 1systems
• water quality
• forest design
• use of chemicals
Peter McGloin
BAU Leader – South East
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Growing, cultivating and felling trees
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Coillte South East Leinster BAU Draft Five Year Forest Plan
Statement of Compliance with Principles of Sustainable Forestry Management
The Coillte estate is a rich, high quality environmental resource, with the potential to interact with
people, landscape, water and biodiversity. As such, Coillte recognises and seeks to minimise any
potential adverse impacts of our business on the environment through responsible environmental
management.
As part of our commitment to the stewardship of our forests, we seek and welcome comments and
suggestions from stakeholders with regard to environmental issues. Through this partnership
approach we also encourage co-operation from our stakeholders.
As a prerequisite to all our operations, Coillte is committed to the protection of the environment
from all of our operations and activities associated with our forestry, property sales and energy
businesses.
Our objectives are to:
1. Implement an organisation-wide system for managing environmental issues. The Director of
Stewardship, Risk and Advocacy has responsibility for managing the implementation of our
environmental management system (EMS).
2. Manage our business in full compliance with all applicable laws, directives and regulations,
as well as voluntary external accredited schemes to which we subscribe e.g. the Forest
Stewardship Council®2 (FSC®) and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest
Certification (PEFC™).
3. Prevent negative environmental impacts through a system of operational controls that
include communication, written instructions and appropriate training
4. Continually improving environmental performance by setting and reviewing objectives &
targets related to significant environmental risks and putting into effect programmes to
reduce those risks.
5. Communicate, as appropriate, to Coillte staff and stakeholders, contractors and their
employees and the communities within which we operate.
Peter McGloin
BAU Leader – South East
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FSC licence code FSC- C005714
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Coillte South East Leinster BAU Draft Five Year Forest Plan
Table of Contents
1. Coillte and the BAU Five Year Forest Plans ............................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
2. South East Leinster BAU .............................................................................................. 166
3. The South East Leinster BAU Five Year Forest Plan ......................................................... 255
4. Sustainable Forest Management Policies and Proposals ................................................. 3636
Appendix I - Summary of Archaeological Sites in South East Leinster BAU ................................. 40
Appendix II - Habitats and Species in South East Leinster BAU ............................................. 4343
Appendix III – Recreation Facilities in the BAU ........................................................................ 51
Appendix IV – Monitoring ................................................................................................... 514
Appendix V – Forest Details ................................................................................................ 566
Appendix VI – BAU Map ..................................................................................................... 588
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Coillte South East Leinster BAU Draft Five Year Forest Plan
1. Coillte and Five Year Forest Plans
1.1 Coillte
Coillte is Ireland's leading forestry company and largest supplier of timber in Ireland with operations
in timber panel production, renewable energy and land management. Our core purpose is to
manage our forests sustainably and enable a vibrant forestry sector in Ireland. As the largest
landowner in Ireland we enable the development of renewable energy projects on our lands in order
to address climate change.
History
Coillte was established under the Forestry Act of 1988 as a private limited company registered under
and subject to the Companies Acts 1963-86. All of the shares in the company are held by the
Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine and the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform on
behalf of the Irish State. The Board of Directors is appointed by the Minister for Agriculture. Coillte
commenced trading in 1989 when it acquired ownership and management of the Irish State’s
forests.
Coillte Today
The company is a forestry and forest products business, with interests in renewable energy. The
company has three operating divisions - Coillte Forest, who manage all aspects of the forestry
business, a Land Solutions business and Medite Smartply, a leading manufacturer of sustainable
timber construction panels.
The company employs approximately 800 people across Ireland and the UK. Our business supports
and enables a vibrant forestry sector in Ireland which is estimated to provide over 12,000 jobs,
mostly in rural Ireland.
The Forest Service (Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine) is the forest authority in
Ireland and regulates the forest industry. The Forest Service is responsible for ensuring the
development of forestry within Ireland in a manner and to a scale that maximises its contribution
to national socio-economic well-being on a sustainable basis that is compatible with the protection
of the environment.
Nature Conservation and Biodiversity
The Coillte estate consists of a varied tapestry of different habitats, ranging from conifer forests
and mixed or broadleaved forests, to open bogs and heathlands, to lakes and rivers. Independent
ecologists have identified the areas on our estate with the best value for biodiversity. These are
then mapped and managed by Coillte as biodiversity areas. Currently, 90,000 hectares of our lands
(about 20% of the estate), in more than 2,300 sites, are mapped as biodiversity areas where nature
conservation and biodiversity enhancement are the primary management objective. We work with
and respect nature across all of our forest lands, identifying, mapping and protecting important
features of biodiversity. A list of important wildlife and their habitats and species in this BAU can
be found in Appendix II of this Five Year Forest plan.
Outdoor Recreation
Coillte operate an open forest policy and welcome all visitors to our lands according to the ‘Leave
no Trace’ principals. As Ireland’s leading provider of outdoor recreation we have more than 260
forest recreation sites for you to enjoy. For more information on how to get out and enjoy the
outdoors and for details of all our recreation sites see http://www.coillte.ie/our-forests/explore/
1.2 Renewable Energy
Coillte is committed to the development of renewable energy in Ireland, as we move towards a
sustainable future with enhanced energy security. As the largest provider of high quality sites to
the renewable energy sector, Coillte is making a significant contribution to Ireland’s 2030 target of
achieving 70% of its electricity consumption from renewable sources. Coillte is fully aligned with
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Coillte South East Leinster BAU Draft Five Year Forest Plan
government and EU policy in terms of the role we play in relation to renewable energy development
in Ireland.
Ireland’s dependence on imported fossil fuel has left energy consumers vulnerable in terms of
energy security, energy price volatility and exposure to carbon taxes. Reducing Irelands reliance
on fossil fuel imports, reducing our greenhouse gas emissions and improving domestic fuel security
are key pillars for developing a green economy.
Coillte has already made a significant contribution towards the development of renewable energy in
Ireland over the last 20 years. Over the course of the five year forest plan period and beyond,
Coillte has a very important role to play, both as a developer and a land owner, in helping Ireland
reach its 2030 renewable energy targets and in helping reduce Ireland’s carbon emissions. Coillte
proposes to do this through facilitating the development of multiple renewable energy technologies.
In terms of developing our renewable energy resources we are committed to:
• Open and transparent public participation and consultation in renewable energy projects with
stakeholders and local communities.
• Best in class Environmental Impact Assessment and Appropriate Assessment that enhances and
preserves local ecology and the habitats therein.
• Complying with all relevant environmental legislation, health and safety legislation, regulations
and other requirements as they arise.
• Minimising the impact of wind farm development on the surrounding landscape and surrounding
forestry in so far as that is possible through careful siting and design.
• Considering the impact on recreational users, and also the opportunity there may be when
developing a wind farm to develop enhanced recreational facilities.
• Mitigating against the risk of pollution and conducting our business in an environmentally
friendly way.
1.2.1 Public Participation and Consultation for renewable energy projects
Coillte supports proper planning and sustainable development and fully recognises that the
development of renewable energy projects must afford appropriate protection to the social,
environmental and economic pillars of sustainability. We are committed to ensuring that people
are aware of our plans and policies and that we present all of our information in a clear and
understandable manner.
Coillte’s policy is to consult widely with national and local stakeholders in all stages of the wind farm
development from pre-planning, development and operational phases. In addition, all projects
developed by Coillte provide a Community Benefit mechanism as part of the project.
While not currently a statutory requirement of the Irish planning system, Coillte insists that, in all
instances where wind turbines are proposed on the Coillte estate, the relevant host community is
consulted about that proposal prior to any Planning Application being lodged with the relevant
Planning Authority. As part of Coillte’s commitment to the responsible stewardship of its forests, it
seeks and welcomes comments and suggestions from stakeholders about how it manages its forests
in the most responsible way for the benefit of society and future generations.
1.2.2 Wind Energy
Coillte’s lands possess some of the best onshore wind regimes in Ireland due, inter alia, to its
altitude, aspect and location. It also often particularly suitable for wind farm development due to
its remoteness, accessibility, distance from dwellings and visibility relative to areas with high
scenic amenity.
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Coillte South East Leinster BAU Draft Five Year Forest Plan
Coillte is aware that wind energy is a proven technology and according to the Irish Wind Energy
Association (IWEA), it provided 24% of our Irish electricity demand in 2015. As outlined in the
White Paper ‘Ireland’s Transition to a Low Carbon Energy Future 2015-2030’, Coillte too recognises
that “onshore wind will continue to make a significant contribution” to meeting Ireland’s energy
needs.
Should you require further information regarding Coillte’s involvement in the wind energy industry,
please consult the Frequently Asked Questions section of our website (www.coillte.ie/faqs) and
do not hesitate to contact us at info@coillte.ie
1.2.3 Biomass
The key guiding principle for Coillte’s vision is that Ireland’s biomass is a limited and valuable
indigenous resource and should be harnessed in a way that maximises value throughout the supply
chain. Coillte does so by providing competitive, long term and secure biomass fuel supply contracts
for its woodchip clients and also assists in the evaluation of both the technical and commercial
viability of projects for large scale industrial energy users. Coillte continues to play a key leadership
role in delivering sustainable biomass energy solutions to the Irish biomass industry through its
regional processing hub supply model. We operate a number of regional biomass fuel supply hubs
throughout the country. Coillte provide full chain of custody from forest to boiler (”stump to steam’’)
and all wood chip is produced strictly in accordance with quality specifications set out in I.S. CEN/TS
14961: 2005, with a significant emphasis on optimisation of wood flow to minimise haulage
distances for all transportation required. Coillte processing hub now support a range of supply chain
jobs and underpins significant annual energy and carbon savings for its clients. Should you require
any further details regarding Coillte’s involvement in the biomass industry, please do not hesitate
to contact us at biomass@coillte.ie.
1.2.4 Other Renewable Technologies
In addition to playing a leadership role in wind energy and biomass production, Coillte is currently
engaged in a process to assess the potential opportunities for solar energy on the Coillte estate.
Coillte is also assessing recent technology developments in the area of energy storage.
Furthermore, the potential for hydro energy may also be considered on the estate along with any
other emerging technologies. Work is underway to understand these technologies and their
potential application for Coillte, either being integrated into our existing energy projects or
developed as standalone projects in the future.
1.3 Coillte’s Resource Management Approach
During 2011 and 2012 a major project was undertaken within Coillte Forest to review fundamentally
our approach to managing our forest resource. The underlying objective of this work is to use
optimisation techniques to ensure we are maximising the return from the land resource in a
balanced and sustainable manner. In 2013 this project moved into implementation phase and, after
a successful pilot programme, has now been adopted as the primary planning tool for Coillte forest.
The schedule itself is built through running a management model. It is important that the model
reflects
• the costs and benefits of all possible actions,
• the crop and site types and the circumstances under which each action is allowed,
• and the relevant management objectives and constraints operating at a strategic and local level
As the model was developed and refined each BAU was consulted on the model as it applies to
their area. The outputs of the management model may span multiple years or decades and in this
format, will be used as a strategic resource management tool.
A major benefit of the approach to Coillte is the speed with which a new national activity schedule
is generated which reflects, for example, the impact of storm or a significant shift in markets. In
extreme cases a stand may have its scheduled fell year shifted as frequently as every quarter, as
the model is re-run to incorporate emerging information on demand or crop parameters.
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Coillte South East Leinster BAU Draft Five Year Forest Plan
This is why forest management principles, objectives and constraints are reflected into the model
and form the basis the BAU plan.
Once these principles are agreed, each model run during the lifetime of the BAU Forest Plan will
comply with the principles, as will the ensuing harvest schedule. The harvest activity levels are
available to view on our Webmap, these draft activity levels are based on an initial run. Where
changes occur due to public feedback or from other influences e.g. environmental or policy, which
cause an increase of over 20% in activity within a property these areas will be published on Coillte’s
website as having changed significantly since initial publication.
1.4 Benefits of Coillte to the public
As the largest provider of timber and timber products in Ireland, Coillte enables a vibrant forest
sector employing around 12,000 people, mostly in rural Ireland. In addition to these benefits to
the economy in terms of sustainable forest products and energy production, Coillte’s forests provide
a range of social, environmental, recreational, health and tourism benefits to the State and its
people.
Coillte operate an open forest policy and welcome over 18 million visitors to our lands each year. We
provide over 260 forest recreation sites, twelve forest parks, six dedicated mountain bike trails and
more than 3,000 km of walking trails on our lands. We are members of Leave No Trace Ireland and
work closely with them to promote responsible use of the outdoors. Coillte also manage over 20%
of our forest estate exclusively for nature conservation and biodiversity protection. Our forests are
multi-use and commercial timber management and recreation are not exclusive of each other and
can and do exist side by side on the Coillte Estate. Habitat restoration projects such as Coillte’s EU
funded LIFE Projects, and recreation partnerships like the Dublin Mountains Partnership are
showcase projects that demonstrate best practice in natural resource management.
1.4.1 Trees, Carbon and Climate Change
In addition to being important resources for construction and for energy production our forests are
also important natural systems for capturing and storing carbon from the atmosphere. Carbon
dioxide is perhaps the main gas responsible for climate change and trees are key to the battle
against it.
As they grow, trees remove carbon dioxide gas from the air. They convert this carbon into wood
while at the same time releasing pure oxygen back into the atmosphere. This is incredibly valuable,
ensuring forests, with thousands of trees are both an effective carbon store and carbon sink.
The quicker a forest grows, the more carbon it removes from the atmosphere. Conifers grow at a
faster rate than other trees, which is why they are perfect for carbon sequestration. Our fastest
growing conifers have an average growth rate of 18 cubic metres per year compared to an average
of 4 cubic metres for slower growing broadleaf tree.
If managed appropriately, commercial forests can have an advantage over natural forests in terms
of removing and storing carbon.
Maturing trees in a natural forest can lose as much carbon to the atmosphere through decay as
they absorb through growth. A managed forest however will continue to absorb carbon over multiple
generations, as trees are harvested at maturity and replaced with new young trees. This maintains
a rapid rate of carbon sequestration.
The timber products made from forest wood also lock carbon away, which means that using timber
products for construction in place of more conventional materials such as bricks, concrete and steel
also leads to further net reduction of carbon emissions.
In summary, well managed plantation forests have a triple benefit in combating climate change:
1) Tree absorb carbon from the atmosphere.
2) This carbon is then stored in timber products after harvesting.
3) Timber products can substitute carbon heavy products like concrete and steel.
8Coillte South East Leinster BAU Draft Five Year Forest Plan
And finally, trees are always replanted after harvesting to restart the cycle of absorption again.
Coillte consult with local communities in a number of ways, for example through planning
consultation process, through direct liaison via annual BAU consultation meetings, through our
online portal and directly through operational consultation. Coillte endeavour at all times to
accommodate the requirements of stakeholders where possible.
1.4.2 Coillte Nature
Coillte Nature is the not-for-profit branch of Coillte that is dedicated to the restoration,
regeneration and rehabilitation of nature across Ireland. Our mission is to deliver real impact on
the climate and biodiversity crises through innovative projects-of-scale across four strategic
themes:
• Reforesting our landscapes by planting new native woodlands on un-forested land
• Restoring important biodiversity areas by investing in major habitat improvements
• Regenerating urban forests for the benefit of people and nature
• Rehabilitating ecosystem services by bringing sensitive or degraded lands into better
health
For more information, see www.coillte.ie/coillte-nature/
1.5 Meeting external challenges and constraints
Coillte and all of its forests, lands and operations are subject to a number of key external factors.
Typically these arise as policies or legislation relating to forestry which drive change and can have
a major influence on our future. Understanding and anticipating these factors is vital in order to
manage change proactively rather than responding to it reactively and Coillte work proactively with
our key statutory and non-statutory regulators. The following table outlines some of the principal
challenges and commitments. The five year forest plans will each contribute to meeting these
challenges and constraints.
9Coillte South East Leinster BAU Draft Five Year Forest Plan
1.5.1 Statutory and non-Statutory regulation and certification of forestry
Response
National Forestry Programme 2014-2020 In response to the National Forestry Programme:
“To develop an internationally Coillte will set and meet targets for the national timber supply.
competitive and sustainable forest sector Coillte will seek to increase the recreational value at selected
that provides a full range of economic, forests.
environmental and social benefits to Coillte will continue to manage 20% of all its forests exclusively for
society and which accords with the Forest nature conservation and biodiversity
Europe definition of sustainable forest
management .”
National Biodiversity Plan Coillte is making a meaningful contribution to the National
Ireland is a signatory to the 1992 Biodiversity Action Plan through the designation of 20% of its forest
Convention on Biological Diversity and is estate overall for nature conservation and biodiversity management.
committed to biodiversity protection and Since 2014, we have reviewed and categorised these biodiversity
enhancement measures in the National areas and have an ongoing plan in place to update our biodiversity
Biodiversity Plan. plans to enhance the ecological value and potential of these sites.
Coillte initiated a partnership with the National Biodiversity Data
Centre based in Waterford which currently holds more than 85,000
records of different species of animals and plants from Coillte lands.
EC Habitats Directive and EC Birds Coillte is committed to achieving or maintaining favourable
Directive condition of all of the Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), Special
(92/43/EEC) as transposed into Irish law Protection Areas (SPAs) and Natural Heritage Areas (NHA) on its
under the S.I. No. 477 of 2011 EUROPEAN lands.
COMMUNITIES (BIRDS AND NATURAL All forest operations which potentially could impact on such sites are
HABITATS) REGULATIONS 2011. assessed under the criteria outlined as required by the Regulations.
The EU Directive on the conservation of
natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora
provides for the protection of habitats and
their species, and where necessary their
restoration to favourable conservation
status.
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Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC) National Surface and Drinking Water Regulations have been enacted
The EU Water Framework Directive since 2007 to give legal status to the criteria and standards to be
establishes a framework for the protection used for classifying surface waters in accordance with the ecological
of rivers, lakes, coastal and ground waters objectives approach of the Water Framework Directive. The
by requiring States to achieve good classification of waters is a key step in the river basin management
ecological status for all waters, ensuring planning process and is central to the setting of objectives and the
that status does not deteriorate in any development of programmes of measures. Waters classified as ‘high’
waters. The summary timetable and work or ‘good’ must not be allowed deteriorate. Waters classified as less
programme for the production of the than good must be restored to at least good status within a
second cycle of River Basin Management prescribed timeframe. The environmental targets or goals and the
Plans (RBMPs) 2015-2021 was published in programmes of measures (POMs) to be included in river basin
July 2015. In addition a Significant Water management plans must therefore reflect these requirements.
Management Issues (SWMI) report will be Coillte has been proactive with the regulatory agencies, such as the
published and will be open to public Forest Service, Inland Fisheries Ireland, Local Authorities, EPA and
consultation until December 2015. This NPWS, in deriving POMs to be implemented by the forest sector in
will feed into the draft River Basin avoiding and/or minimising the potential impact of forest activities
Management Plans for 2015-2021 to be on water quality. A central tenet of the POMs is the adherence to the
published in December 2016. The RBMPs Forest Service Code of Best Forest Practice and Guidelines, including
will be open to further public consultation all relevant regulations and requirements, and the Forest Standards
with a view to publish an updated and final for Ireland (National, FSC and PEFC). Furthermore, compliance will
version in December 2017. be assessed by way of independent audits by the Forest Service, the
FSC and PEFC.
Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) Coillte is fully committed to a policy of sustainable management of
SFM is the forestry sector’s response to all of its forests and forest lands. Coillte applied for FSC certification
sustainable development. Balancing the of its forests in 2000 and were awarded an FSC certificate in 2001.
economic, environmental and social Coillte applied for PEFC certification of its forests in 2013 and were
elements is now the accepted way by awarded a PEFC certificate in 2014. These external forest
which forest management is conducted. management certification schemes endorse Coillte’s policy of
Forest certification ensures best forest sustainable forest management, balancing the social, economic and
practice is implemented and provides environmental aspects of forest management.
stakeholders with an opportunity to
contribute to the management of forests.
Compliance with forest certification
standards is assessed annually by
independent auditors.
1.5.2 Pests and Diseases
Coillte also respond to external factors that have a significant impact on its forests. One example
is the disease Phytophthora Ramorum also known as sudden oak death which has been detected in
a number of BAUs. Another is Chalara fraxina which is a serious fungal disease of ash trees. This
has caused widespread damage to ash populations in continental Europe and was recently detected
in a number of privately owned forests.
Coillte liaise closely with Forest Service with regard to this significant potential threat to our Ash
woodlands and will respond immediately to any mitigation measures proposed.
In addition, Coillte carry out forest health surveys of its estate and assist in the monitoring of
nationally important forest pests such as Ips typographus, the eight-toothed bark beetle, where
appropriate.
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1.5.3 Societal Expectations
A number of changes in modern society also impact Coillte’s management and planning for its forest
estate and these include:
• A greater awareness of environmental issues amongst the public leading to a demand for higher
standards of environmental protection.
• Coillte has responded to an increased appreciation of landscape and of the place of forests in
the landscape by new policies and practices in relation to forest design and by new approaches
to felling decisions, in particular looking at alternatives to extensive clear felling where possible.
• A higher demand for access, recreational and tourism facilities in forests and in the types of
recreation demanded – Coillte practices an open forest policy where all of its forests are open
for walking, and has increased its provision of special trails including improved provision of
waymarked ways and looped walks, mountain bike trails and nature trails. Coillte frequently
enters into partnerships with local communities, local development and tourism groups, county
councils, and with development bodies such as Fáilte Ireland, Waterways Ireland and the
Fisheries Boards to achieve such provision.
1.5.4 Illegal Dumping
Due to the vast and rural nature of the Coillte forest estate, illegal dumping has become a major
issue for Coillte with sites close to urban centres being particularly prone to this criminal activity.
Illegal dumping in our forests is not just an unpleasant eyesore, it is an environmental hazard and
causes serious problems to habitats, species, and human health. It can pollute rivers and drinking
water sources, damage biodiversity and is a threat to both the people who live in the area and
recreational users. In addition, it poses a health and safety risk to those staff and contractors who
are tasked to remove this illegally dumped litter.
In order to deter illegal dumping Coillte install CCTV cameras and signage in illegal dumping
hotspots and investigate all reports of dumping on our forest lands. When evidence is found at
dumping sites, litter wardens issue fines and pursue prosecutions. Coillte also work closely with
local authorities to seek prosecutions against those who are responsible for illegal dumping.
Coillte also participate in a number of community and local authority initiatives. Coillte would ask
the pubic to be vigilant and report any suspected cases of illegal dumping to the authorities.
1.5.5 Forest Fires
Forest fires can have a number of serious impacts for Coillte. These include financial losses as well
as having an impact on the wider forest industry by disrupting timber supplies from Coillte to the
saw mills. There are significant re-establishment cost following a forest fire. There is also potential
health and safety risk to emergency personnel, staff and contractors involved in fire control and to
members of the public. In addition, environmental impacts include damage to recreation facilities
and endangered species.
It is Coillte’s policy to minimise areas damaged by fire with effective prevention and fire control
measures. Forest fires can occur through the year but the risk is greatest during dry spells from
March to June when ground vegetation is dormant and dry. Fire Plans are developed for all forest
properties including a map showing access routes and assembly points for fire-fighting personnel,
equipment and potential sources of water. As part of Coillte’s health and safety programme all
Coillte personnel and selected volunteers involved in fire-fighting duties must attend a one day
Coillte fire training course. The one day course aims to equip everyone with the skills and
knowledge required to carry out forest fighting duties in a safe and effective manner. On completion
of training they will receive a certificate and a fire grab bag containing personal supplies relevant
to firefighting. BAU Team Leaders have the authority to avail of helicopter services based on input
from Operations Managers, and in consultation with National Estates Risk Manager, if
necessary. Helicopters will be equipped with bambi buckets. A helicopter could be considered for
a number of uses:
12Coillte South East Leinster BAU Draft Five Year Forest Plan
• Surveillance of fire
• Transportation of staff and equipment
• Fire fighting
Coillte would ask for vigilance from the public in relation to Forest fires and act if required by
1. Reporting directly to the emergency services any sightings of a fire
2. Reporting any suspicious activity in relation to fire or any knowledge of attempts to light a
fire
3. Not lighting campfires or charcoal barbecue sets on Coillte property.
13Coillte South East Leinster BAU Draft Five Year Forest Plan
1.6 Coillte BAUs
Coillte’s estate is divided into eight Business Area Units (BAUs).
14Coillte South East Leinster BAU Draft Five Year Forest Plan
Coillte has developed plans for each of these BAUs, called Five Year Forest Plans which describe
Coillte's forests and other assets in the area, and set out a vision for their management. The last
planning cycle was for 2016-2020. This plan refers to the incoming planning cycle 2021-2025.
Coillte also convenes annual consultation meetings* for each of its BAUs. Plans are discussed with
stakeholders to help Coillte to understand social, recreational and environmental issues as well as
opportunities and concerns in each BAU.
*Due to health crisis in 2020, BAU consultation meetings could not be held. This will be reviewed in 2021 in line with government health advice
1.7 Summary on the Various Levels of Coillte Forest Management Planning
The BAU Five Year Plan sets out the economic, social and environmental strategies and priorities
for the long and medium term in the BAU and gives a clear direction for the management of the
forests at local level for the next 5 years. The plans are developed in consultation with a wide range
of stakeholders both internal and external to the company. Input from external stakeholders
(individuals, communities, NGOs and statutory bodies) are sought during the consultation process,
feedback is considered and where feasible, is incorporated into the plans. The Forest Management
Unit (FMU) planning requirement, for Forest Certification, is achieved through the BAU Five Year
Plan process.
Activity Pack is built when site-level planning is initiated for activity within each Harvest Unit and
describes how the plan is going to be implemented for the operation managers, workers and
contractors. Social and environmental impacts, including consultation, are assessed through the
environmental impact appraisal process and mitigation measures are written in each site
management plan.
All levels of planning feed into the annual BAU Operating Business Plan and Work Plan. These
plans focus on the tasks/targets to be achieved during the year and outline the necessary resources
(financial and personnel) required.
The BAU is the Forest Management Unit and is built from smaller spatial entities the largest of these
being the Forest Unit. Key activity levels within each Forest Unit are further broken down in
Appendix V. Further to the appendix, a Webmap is available via our website to view areas with
proposed Clearfells and areas which have the potential to be thinned in the review period.
15Coillte South East Leinster BAU Draft Five Year Forest Plan
2. South East Leinster BAU
2.1 The South East Leinster BAU
All BAUs play important roles in achieving Coillte targets and objectives. The South East Leinster
BAU of Coillte Forest encompasses the entire counties of K i l k e n n y , Kildare, Dublin, Wicklow,
Carlow and Wexford. It covers 1,003,205 Ha of Ireland. Within this area, Coillte owns 59,730 Ha
(5.96%) with well over 90% of which is forested with the remainder mostly open moorland, marsh
and lakes.
Large populations centres include the suburbs of South Dublin (including Tallaght, Rathfarnham
and Dalkey), the coastal areas of Bray, Greystones, Wicklow, Arklow and Wexford which have high
population centres, while in Kildare, Newbridge and Naas are the main population centres and
Blessington, Carlow and Baltinglass dominate the western area of the BAU with finally
K i l k e n n y , New Ross, Gorey and Enniscorthy in the southern geographic area. The map below
shows the major towns and roadways in the South East Leinster BAU.
The climate for forestry operations is suitable, with moderate rainfall and relatively good ground
conditions. The soil types in the BAU are quite fertile and assist in the growth of highly productive
forestry.
2.2 Forests and Forest Products in the South East Leinster BAU
A map of Coillte’s Forests in the South East Leinster BAU can be viewed in Appendix VI.
During the 2016-2020 period, the BAU produced approximately 1.9 million cubic metres of wood
(2020 figure estimates). This timber was primarily sold to Murray Timber Products primarily in
Ballon Co. Carlow, Glennon Brothers in Fermoy, Eastlog in Aughrim, SmartPly in Waterford,
Medite in Clonmel, Coolrain in Coolrain and Laois in Portlaoise. Many other smaller mills buy
timber for example Glenwood, Greenwood, Michael Grace, Leitrim sawmills and Griffith stakes.
Forest Products
Private timber
Coillte is the largest producer and consumer of pulpwood in Ireland. Coillte's strategy is to
supplement its own supply through the purchase of private timber, through various channels. For
further information please check the Coillte website at www.coillte.ie
Farm Partnerships
This scheme is where Coillte and a farmer form a joint venture by agreement whereby Coillte plants
and manages the plantation for the life of the crop; ownership of the land remains with the farmer.
Currently we have 153 farm partnerships within the BAU. This number is not expected to increase
in the lifetime of this plan, as we are no longer engaged in this area. We will continue to support
our existing partners.
2.3 Community, Recreation and Tourism Facilities in the South East Leinster BAU
Coillte has a long association with the communities, clubs and individuals who use the extensive
forest network. The development of recreational f a c i l i t i e s a n d activities in line with Coillte’s
Recreation policy are some of the many ways Coillte can contribute towards the “public good”
value of the estate. This can be achieved through partnerships, permits and ongoing relationships
t h a t r e s p e c t s t h e s u s t a i n a b l e u s e o f o u r f o r e s t s f o r f u t u r e g e n e r a t i o n s . The South
East Leinster BAU recreational activities contribute to the social, environmental and economic life
within the BAU boundaries.
A number of recreational facilities are the result of a joint initiative between Coillte and local
communities. Examples of this collaborative effort are developments such as:
16Coillte South East Leinster BAU Draft Five Year Forest Plan
Dublin Mountains Partnership (DMP):
Dublin Mountains Partnership (DMP)
The DMP was officially launched in October 2008 and a recreation manager has been in place
since January 2009. All six partners (Coillte, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, Dublin
Mountains Initiative, National Parks & Wildlife Service, South Dublin County Council and Dublin
City Council) are highly committed to the work of the DMP and funding is in place to continue
the excellent progress into the future. Over the last number of years the partnership has
undertaken and completed a number of projects to improve recreation, manage environmentally
sensitive sites and improve awareness of forest biodiversity. These include:
• Maintaining and upgrading the Dublin Mountains Way,
• Installing electronic gates in the Hell Fire and Barnaslingan car parks,
• Master plan for the Mountain bike Trails in Tiknock,
• Dublin Mountains Way promotional brochure produced,
• Volunteer and community involvement through the Volunteer ranger service and the
• consultative forum.
The DMP have supported the Coillte Nature Dublin Mountains Makeover plans, promoting
recreation in seven forest properties which have exceptionally high visitor numbers. The forests
will have areas managed though Continuous Forest Cover (CCF) and conversion to native
woodlands through clearfell and replanting of native tree species.
The Wicklow Way Partnership (WWP):
The WWP was set up in 2011 and all six partners (Coillte, Wicklow County Council, Mountain
Meitheal, County Wicklow Partnership, National Parks and Wildlife Service and the DMP) are highly
committed to enhancing, upgrading and maintaining the Wicklow Way to the highest standard. The
partnership has completed a number of re-routes that has enabled it to take sections off road by
utilising Coillte and NPWS lands.
The Wicklow Outdoor Recreation Committee (WORC):
The committee consists of Coillte, Wicklow County Council, County Wicklow Partnership, Fáilte
Ireland, Wicklow Tourism, Wicklow Uplands Council, National Park & Wildlife Service and Wicklow
IFA. The five main objectives of the Wicklow Outdoor Strategy are to:
• Develop an integrated outdoor recreation management,
• Improve opportunities and facilities for sustainable outdoor recreation,
• Support conservation through outdoor recreation,
• Promote, educate and raise awareness,
• Stimulate outdoor recreation tourism and entrepreneurship.
Coillte are members of both the Wicklow Way Partnership and St. Kevin’s Way Partnership with the
WORC group. The BAU has a high recreational usage with a number of National Way-marked
Ways traversing Coillte property within the BAU. These include sections of The Wicklow Way,
St. Kevin’s Way, The South Leinster Way and The Dublin Mountains Way.
Over 70 kilometres of the WW and St. Kevin’s pass through a significant number of properties in
the BAU. An annual maintenance plan is agreed with the WORC group members to improve the
trails.
At present, we are working with South Dublin County Council to prepare a feasibility study for a
recreational project in the Hell Fire Massey’s area of South Dublin.
17Coillte South East Leinster BAU Draft Five Year Forest Plan
Coillte has also developed a number of trails in conjunction with local communities and other
agencies. An example of this would be the NeighbourWood Scheme walking in Baltinglass.
Further examples are rerouting the Spinc Walk in Glendalough and planned construction of a
pedestrian bridge across the Avonmore River to link Ballygannon to the Avonmore Way.
There are two highly utilised forest amenity parks located in the geographical area covered by
the BAU, Donadea Forest Park located just outside Clane in Kildare and Avondale House and Forest
Park located just outside Rathdrum in Wicklow which is being re-developed into a state-of-the-art
visitor destination through our partnership with Failte Ireland.
In total €8 million will be invested in phase 1 of the re-development of Avondale Forest Park ‘A Place
for Visionaries’, which is supported by Wicklow County Council and is set to create a major boost for
Ireland’s tourism industry
There will also be a state-of-the-art visitor centre on site that will offer a café and restaurant, before
leading to Coillte’s ‘Evolution of Forestry’ installation and a breath-taking Tree Top walkway providing
360-degree views of the canopy and Avonmore River valley.
Many Coillte forests in this BAU are expansive and offer multiple activities such as walking, hiking,
multi access and long distance trails cycling on new bike trails, fishing, picnicking, watching
wildlife, canoeing, field archaeology or simple enjoyment of the outdoors.
This BAU has 42 designated areas for recreational activity, and these are detailed on the Coillte
website http://www.coillte.ie/our-forests/attractions/
A list of woodlands in the BAU, designated for recreation, available in Appendix III.
2.4 Cultural and Archaeological Heritage in the South East Leinster BAU
Coillte is aware of 305 archaeological sites and sites of cultural significance in its landholdings in
the South East Leinster BAU. These monuments include megalithic tombs of different kinds,
cashels and other enclosures and crannogs. A summary of archaeological sites in the BAU is provided
in Appendix I.
With support and advice from the NPWS, Coillte has developed a Code of Practice in order to
protect this archaeological and cultural heritage.
Many land acquisitions contain farmsteads and features representing rural life in the 19th and
early 20th century. These are identified and protected within forest management practices and
identified when proposals for sales are being developed. They are evaluated in terms of their
social and historical value and a plan implemented for their preservation. Examples include;
Tintern in Wexford and Camenabologue property in Glenmalure Forest w h e r e t h e r e is a link
track between Glenmalure and Glen of Imall and has both cultural and historical significance
dating back to pre- 1798 times and is protected during forest operations. An old Sitka spruce
tree on Stafford’s Avenue, Shelton Property is reputed to be the second highest tree in Ireland,
this tree is protected. Coillte will identify, protect and record all new items of heritage which are
discovered on its lands.
2.5 Biodiversity and High Conservation Value Forests (HCVF) Within the South East
Leinster BAU
Habitats and features of biodiversity value on the Coillte estate are protected during forest
operations.
The table below shows that approx. 10,858 ha of Coillte land in the South East BAU is protected
during operations or enhanced to increase its biodiversity value. This equates to approximately 18%
of all Coillte land in the BAU.
Areas protected or managed for biodiversity are spread across the BAU area and vary widely, both
in terms of their size and in terms of the habitat type present.
Broadly, there are three main types of site protected for biodiversity: Biodiversity Areas, Biodiversity
Features and Riparian Buffers. Biodiversity Features and Riparian Buffers can occur anywhere on the
estate, including within Biodiversity Areas, so there is some overlap between these three categories
18Coillte South East Leinster BAU Draft Five Year Forest Plan
Bio Ref Description Area (ha)
Habitats that have particular value for nature
Biodiversity Areas 8,820
or biodiversity.
Small features (usuallyCoillte South East Leinster BAU Draft Five Year Forest Plan
forestry policy was were very different to today) are removed and the strip is either left open to
revegetate naturally. Sometimes, clumps of native broadleaves are manually planted in the buffer
strip.
Over time, the buffer strips develop into open habitat or scrub alongside the watercourse or lake,
and have considerable wildlife value. As with the biodiversity features, the area of riparian buffers
increases over time, as more are mapped on operations sites and converted to open habitat and/or
scrub.
HCVF
Coillte’s certification process requires that we identify areas of high conservation value forests
(HCVF) across the forest estate. High conservation value forests (HCVF) are areas, not necessarily
under forest, that are nationally important for nature conservation and have recognised
conservation values associated with them. Two high conservation values have been identified for
Coillte forest lands, namely:
1. Forest areas containing globally, regionally or nationally significant concentrations of biodiversity
values
2. Forest areas that are in or contain rare, threatened or endangered ecosystems.
In Ireland, HCVF i s d e f i n e d a s s i t e s t h a t h a v e a s t a t u t o r y designation for nature
conservation, either nationally under the Wildlife Act as Natural Heritage Areas (NHA) or under
European Law (Habitats Directive) as Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) or Special Protection
Areas for birds (SPA).
HCVF areas may be quite large, such as Special Protection Areas in the west of Ireland for hen
harrier conservation, or they may be quite small such as an old house within a forest which
hosts an important roosting site for bats. They may also occur on non-forested lands such as
the Atlantic blanket bogs in the west and the raised bogs of the Midlands.
All management operations in HCVF areas are designed to maintain and/or enhance the designated
conservation value and operations are further managed using the precautionary principle.
The table below shows statutory designated areas and HCVF in the South East BAU. Areas shown
are in hectares (Ha). Note
Designation Area (ha on Coillte
lands)
HCVF 5,418
NHA* – Natural Heritage Area 63
SAC* - Special Area of Conservation 1,997
SPA* – Special Protection Area 2,363
Nature Reserve 466
pNHA 2,287
* to be filled in
2.6 Species and Habitats in the South East Leinster BAU
The following rare and/or protected species are known to be present in the BAU. The red kite,
red squirrel, otter, merlin, peregrine falcon, wood warbler, nightjar, little egret, red grouse,
w o o d p e c k e r , a number of bat species, fresh water pearl mussel, greater broomrape, pine
martin, badger and the narrow-leaved helleborine (see Appendix II for list of examples).
The BAU aims to maintain and where possible enhance the habitats of these species.
20Coillte South East Leinster BAU Draft Five Year Forest Plan
Management plans have been drawn up for agreed biodiversity areas which will ensure that
forest operations will not interfere with the habitat of these species where they exist on Coillte
land. The Biodiversity Action Plans, produced by Coillte, for the hen harrier and the freshwater
pearl mussel will continue to be drawn upon. Close communication will be maintained with
the NPWS on all matters relating to all of the above species.
2010 coincided with the successful introduction and breeding of the red kite. In addition, further
populations of the fresh water pearl mussel have been identified and as a consequence Coillte
have changed the procedures being used in these areas in order to ensure the continued existence
of populations.
Detailed tables have been provided in Appendix II showing examples of our approach to the
management of areas designated for biodiversity under each of the more important habitat types
identified during the ecological surveys and also showing notable species of flora and fauna. The
Forest Management Plans for each forest contain details on the entire list of biodiversity areas
involved.
2.7 Invasive Species
Within the BAU there are a number of species that are not native to Ireland and which are
capable of having a negative effect on native biodiversity. Most notable, from a Coillte point of
view, are Rhododendron and to a lesser extent laurel which are a significant issue in some
properties. Other species of concern include Japanese Knotweed and giant hogweed. In line with
international best practice, when controlling invasive species (including Rhododendron), the BAUs
resources are focused on priority sites based on:
1. The site’s uniqueness (e.g. whether or not they are Priority habitats, as per EU Habitats
directive),
2. Whether the presence of Rhododendron is likely to facilitate the spread of the exotic disease
Phytophthora ramorum,
3. The site’s intrinsic ecological/biodiversity value (e.g. are they High Conservation Value Forests
or Old Woodland Sites).
4. The social value of the forest (e.g. the extent to which the forest is used as a recreational
facility/proximity to urban population).
2.8 Water Quality and Protection in the South East Leinster BAU
Coillte abides by all Forest Service Guidelines, Regulations and Requirements in regard to
protecting water quality, and in particular the Forest Service Guidelines on Water Quality, which
detail sound and practical measures for handling forest operations in proximity to waterways. As
the largest landowner in counties Kilkenny, Kildare, Dublin, Wicklow, Carlow and Wexford, Coillte
has a responsibility to ensure that it’s actions do not negatively impact on water quality. The main
reservoirs for Dublin city and suburbs are located in County Wicklow. The headwaters of many
streams and rivers feeding these reservoirs rise in Coillte property. Within the BAU the following
are the most significant issues relating to water:
• Presence of naturally acidic sensitive streams and rivers due to underlying bedrock of granite
and schist,
• Water abstraction for domestic and industrial use by Local Authorities and Group Water
Schemes, such as Roundwood (Vartry) reservoir,
• Presence of important salmonoid rivers, such as the Dargle River,
• Presence of the fresh water pearl mussel in the Slaney River catchment.
The main rivers in the BAU are the Liffey, Dodder, Tolka, Avonbeg, Avonmore, Vartry, Slaney,
Barrow, Nore & Suir. The rivers and lakes of the area support important salmon fisheries and this
is also important to the local economy. There are also associated freshwater pearl mussel
populations within some of these fisheries.
Furthermore, the BAU falls within the National River Basin and covers 9 river catchments either
21Coillte South East Leinster BAU Draft Five Year Forest Plan
partially or completely.
Coillte actively plays its part in protecting the water bodies water quality. Prior to the
commencement of all high impact forest operations, an environmental risk assessment (ERA) is
conducted whereby all important aquatic zones (as defined by the Forest Service Guidelines) and
permanent relevant watercourses draining the proposed operations area are noted and mitigation
measures listed to ensure protection of the waters. It is at this stage, the requirement for
the establishment of water protection areas (buffer zones), if not already in-situ, will be stipulated
for all watercourses. Reference will be made on how the trees are to be removed and prohibition
of machinery movement in the buffer zones during forest operations.
If the proposed ‘high impact’ forest operations site is judged to be water sensitive, a water
monitoring programme will be put in place. This will comprise of daily visual assessment and
recording of surface waters draining the site during operations and the immediate adoption of
appropriate contingency measures where discolouration of the water is observed. On the most
sensitive sites, this monitoring process is backed up with short-term water sampling. Typically,
this sampling would be of short to mid duration, lasting a few weeks to several months, depending
on the duration of the forest operation. Sampling consists of taking samples from the main
tributaries draining the forest site, before, during and after operations are completed.
The adh eren c e to th e EU Water Framework and Habitats Directives, has significant implications
for forest management in the BAU. It highlights the potential pressures of forests on water quality
and increased risks from erosion and sedimentation. The need to move away from monoculture
blocks of forests towards restructured forest stands has been recognised in the BAU. When
restocking after clear felling, an extensive network of new buffer zones will be established to
protect adjoining watercourses. Drainage and cultivation practices on these sites are also designed
to minimise their impact on local water. Coillte will continue to work closely with the relevant
statutory bodies and assist where possible with their water and fishery rehabilitation plans.
2.9 Forest Management Issues
Coillte’s South East Leinster BAU faces a number of issues in relation to managing its forests
effectively for production and for their recreational and social benefits. During the period 2016 to
2020 issues have included:
• Security; Coillte is at the risk of major losses through theft, property, vandalism and
crop damage. In order to minimise this loss the BAU has commenced the implementation of
the Company’s security policy, this involves drawing up security plans,
• Litter and waste dumping; The majority of illegal dumping of domestic waste occurs
where forests adjoin public roads and at forest entrances. The problem is increased in
rural and remote areas but in close proximity to large urban areas. See section on PURE
which outlines some of the work undertaken,
• Deer poaching; The increased level of poaching in the recent period has put greater emphasis
on security. Coillte in conjunction with the NPWS and An Garda Siochana try to minimise the
extent of the problem,
• Illegal use of motorized 2 and 4 wheeled vehicles and inappropriate recreation, anti-social
behaviour: Coillte utilise the most appropriate methods of security including the erection of
cameras in order to reduce this problem but also to bring about prosecutions.
Coillte implemented by-laws for access to and use of Coillte managed lands. Recreation sites
where there are ongoing issues such as illegal access on motorised vehicles, dumping, anti-social
behaviour etc. a r e prioritised for installation of the relevant signage. These bye-laws may be
enforced by the Garda Siochana and offences may be liable to a fine and/or imprisonment.
Coillte staff in BAU 4 have worked with community groups such as Friends of Glenart to highlight
issues and their impact to community groups, Gardai and the general public.
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